Files & Programs transfer to new computer

[rogerduvernay]

I have a P4 computer purchased in 2001 using Windows XP and wish to purchase a new (faster) home computer in the next month.
The new computer would run under Vista, with free update to Windows 7 when available.
What is the best method to transfer Files and programs to the new computer?
I would re-install MS-Office, however, i would like to tranfer the many smaller programs automatically.
The Windows XP Files and settings transfer Wizard tranfers files and settings but not programs. Is there a free (or low cost) File and programs mover that uses CD's or perhaps a USB cable?

[Danster]

What I usually do is use my network to move files around. I set both computers to "see" each other and then proceed to make the changes. Much quicker than using a USB/CD-Rom or whatever else.

[hugh]

Use the Windows wizard to transfer for data files and program settings.

You will need to perform fresh installs for the programs. The programs need to be installed so they can be registered with Windows.

[rogerduvernay]

Thanks Danster and Hugh,
Does anyone have any comments on a program called Laplink PC Mover (with free USB cable?
Seems it can even move MS Office without having to re-Install?

[rsambuca]

If you have the physical space in the new machine, one of the easiest methods to transfer files over to the new rig is to just put the old hard drive into the new machine as an extra drive. Transfer speeds are much quicker that way. Then you can use the old drive as a permanent backup drive.

For programs you are better off just re-installing on the new machine.

[57]

Whenever you change operating systems or computers, it's a good idea to install the programmes again. They need to be registered and configured properly with the new computer/OS. This is especially necessary in a PC environment. You should then look for updates for all of these programmes. In some instances, you may even need new software.

Something like LapLink would only be acceptable for programmes if you're using an identical computer with identical OS so that you're basically cloning the old computer. LapLink could be used for file transfer, or you could use USB sticks, DVDs, a network setup, or the old drive (trickier if doing a laptop). etc.

[hugh]

The reviews on PCMover are pretty good. I would suggest that, if you use PC Mover, you first google it for reviews.

PCMover moves everything so you get stuff you may not want moved over.

If you decide to go with PC Mover, please tell us how it goes.

[Professor Frink]

I have used PC Mover quite a bit, unfortunately it only works reliably with a cross-over cable. The USB cable and archive files were just a source of frustration.

[rogerduvernay]

I found migrating to a new computer worst than going to the dentist.

Hugh: I will not be using PCMover! after reading the many reviews on this product, very few liked it, and most found it a nightmare trying to use it. However, I would have gladly paid for a painless transition.

I will be using Windows XP files and settings Wizzard. Since I have two drives on my old computer, I will make a backup on my C drive and physically move the drive to my new computer. I will be able to transfer photos, music, and other files, much faster.

The problem with reinstalling all programs is that you have to find the origin of these programs, latest version, etc.

Of course, after nine years, I have had three printers, two cameras,...and the software
can still be found on my computer.

[Gadget_girl]

After moving my files a couple of times now, and will be doing so once again in October as soon as windows 7 comes out, I can say that re-installing the programs is absolutely the way to go. I've done the files & settings transfer wizard once. And won't again, it was faster to transfer the necessary files manually. I had so many programs on my old OS that I didn't use, again they likely came from assorted printers, digtal cameras, or even with my motherboard, that we aquired over time. It was much easier this last time, to only install the software I used on a regular basis. For some things, the software I acquired (for instance my scanner program) was downloadable from the manufacturer's website. For others, I got in the habit of keeping the CD's in a special folder labeled for this purpose. (Nero for example).

In October I will use my current drive as a slave drive, and install a new drive for the new OS. But I will redirect my documents folder to the slave drive, so that I don't have to transfer all my data files again.

[Nuje]

I found migrating to a new computer worst than going to the dentist.

So did I.
And then I got a Mac.
Transitioning from one Mac to a new one.....my god - it's just too simple and works too well! Every setting, preference, email account, bookmark, file location, etc. all in the same place and looking just like it did on your old machine. All done with about three mouse clicks.

In WindowsWorld, brew yourself up a good pot of coffee, because we're gonna be here a while....

[rogerduvernay]

Finally moved to a new computer: HP, 2 Quad processor, 8GB,23in 1080p monitor with Vista 64 bit.
I did not use the Transfer wizard, found it to be too time consuming and not very user-friendly.
All my files, photos, music, and documents were moved manually using a 8GB USB key.
Most of the 12 hours I used were for acquiring and transferring programs.
My Ms Office, purchased in 97 installed without any problems.
However, I had to obtain newer versions for most other programs, mostly because of Vista 64 bit Op system.
For example, my Canon printer driver CD would not install (Vista compatible...). I found that Canon USA would not let you download a driver if your printer was purchased in Canada (download would abort). After giving up trying to download from Canon Canada (could not find my specific driver and Can site not very user-friendly), I finally downloaded my driver from Canon Australia!
Another problem was with Outlook. I did not remember my PW for E-Mail Accounts.
In order to change your PW, you have to enter the OLD PW in order to enter a new one.
Had to phone Videotron to force new PW....

As many of you suggested, It is best to copy all files manually and re-install the newest version of programs.

My 23in monitor is really wonderful, however, I am disappointed that most web sites are still in 4:3 format....

[Rookie_One]

well, about these websites, its pretty normal

most of the monitors are still 4:3/5:4 format

[ScaryBob]

I would have temporarily connected the old drive to the new PC or installed it in an external USB case for copying files. (USB flash drives are notoriously slow.)

Be careful how you dispose of the old computer and hard drive. The drive must be completely and securely erased to avoid theft of private information (such as credit card numbers and passwords.) Simply reformatting the drive is not enough.

[Rookie_One]

easy way : powerful magnet and a hammer

have fun